Students Explore the Power of Dr. King’s Message

MOUNT VERNON – Students in the Academic and Career Exploration (ACE) Program at Mount Vernon High School celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 15 with music, reflection and expressions of hope for the future.

The program honored the legacy of MLK Jr. by focusing on his message of peace and nonviolence, while encouraging students to connect his words to their own lives. From the opening moments, set to music by Bob Marley, students emphasized peace, kindness and respect as guiding principles.

“Martin Luther King Jr. gave many famous speeches, with the most iconic being the “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963 at the March on Washington, calling for civil rights and an end to racism,” ninth-grader Isabella Bavosa said.

Throughout the program, students explored who Dr. King was and why his leadership continues to matter. The students introduced key moments from the civil rights leader’s life and work, including excerpts from his famed speech, as well as his writings on education and character from his time at Morehouse College.

Students took turns reciting quotes and sharing reflections, demonstrating their understanding of Dr. King’s belief in solving problems without violence.

A highlight of the event came when students shared their own dreams — many centered on the careers and paths they hope to pursue after high school — echoing Dr. King’s message.
The program also included a kindness discussion and pledge, with students committing aloud to be fair, helpful, respectful and compassionate in their everyday lives.

Movement and music played a central role in keeping the celebration joyful and engaging, from a spirited dance to “Rise Up” to group sing-alongs. Students closed the program on a lighthearted note, singing “Three Little Birds” and Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” — complete with bubbles — before a celebration with cake.

Teacher Brigitte Marks-Jackson praised the students for their enthusiasm and hard work.
“The MVHS ACE Cohort students did an amazing job preparing for their presentation,” she said. “Through their learning, the students enthusiastically displayed their strong understanding of Martin Luther King Jr.’s character and his powerful belief in peace and nonviolence.

“The excitement and confidence they showed during their presentation made it clear how much they enjoyed the process. I was incredibly proud of their hard work, growth and accomplishments,” Ms. Marks-Jackson added.

Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland made a surprise appearance during the program, reminding students that MLK Jr. Day is more than a day off.

“It’s a day to reflect, a day of service,” he said, encouraging the community to think critically about progress, challenges and the responsibility to live out Dr. King’s values.
The ACE program is a specialized initiative at MVHS designed to prepare students for life after school by focusing on academics, career skills and independent living. It aims to help students with disabilities or specific needs gain confidence and skills for their futures.